Elderberry plant is the member of the genus Sambucus, which involves around 30 species of little shrubs and trees. The ancient Indian tribes used elderberries in teas and other beverages while Egyptians used it to heal burns. During 17th century, the wine prepared from elderberries came into existence. Elderberry wine is one of the few fruit wines which resembles the wine prepared from grapes.

The selection of high quality ripe elderberries is essential for the preparation of elderberry wine. The first step in the preparation of elderberry wine involves cleaning the elderberries to eradicate their stems and any kind of debris. The next step includes preparation of sugar water. After that elderberries are put in a nylon straining bag and are tied at its ends and the berries are mashed with a potato masher. The mashed berries are put in a container and sugar water is poured into it and the container is covered. After the mixture settles down at lukewarm temperature, crushed Campden tablets, yeast nutrient and blend acid is added to it and again the container is covered and left for 12 hours. After 12 hours, addition of pectic enzymes is required and following 12 hours yeast is added and is stirred for over 2 weeks. The juice is strained in a second container at the end of 14 days. This container is stored in a dark place to aid fermentation. Subsequent to fermentation, rack the wine and pour it into bottles which are then stored in a dark place for about 6 months before drinking.

Elderberry wine has always gained importance due to its multiple health benefits. Drinking Elderberry wine can prove helpful or useful for congestion, bacterial and viral infections, inflammation of the bladder and urinary tract, tonsillitis and cough. Research reveals that elderberry wine can improve heart health as well as lower the level of cholesterol in the body. It also boosts the immunity power of the body. Elderberry wines act as an antioxidant. Kidney problems, rheumatic complaints and back pain are also addressed by drinking elderberry wine. Thus elderberry wine contributes a lot in leading a healthy and good life.